The history of Garden Gnomes Statues has it’s start in folklore and fantasy. Long before the first gnome appeared in that first English Garden in the 1800s these little people were the subject of various stories that were told and retold.

It seems that according to legend gnomes lived underground where they would protect various buried treasures. Of course they sometimes did appear above ground and having a gnome visit your property was thought to be extremely good luck. So, as the story goes a landowner in England decided to purchase a statue of a gnome and put it in his garden for good luck. This first charming little fellow struck a cord with other property owners and soon these little people were popping up all over. Many of these original garden gnome statues were handmade of clay and so each had their own distinct personality which made them all the more appealing to those who sought the luck of these little fellows.

While the gnomes in the stories were never described in any great detail, the garden gnome took on a distinct look. The male gnomes all had white beards, red hats, and simple clothing. The women were dressed pretty much the same, with long hair and they originally looked very much like a witch.

Then along came the 1960s and the manufacturing of cheap plastics which resulted in the mass production of rather bright colored and garish looking garden gnomes. For awhile, these cheap imitations were popular, but they soon died out as those who owned original gnomes found these cheaply made plastic creatures something of an affront to the statutes of old.

However, with the advancement of technology and new resins hitting the market, the manufacturing of garden gnomes once again began to take on a more polished and appealing look. However, these newer garden gnome statues do not simply sit or stand around in the garden but, seem to be quite active. While some hold watering cans or nap among the tomatoes or beans, others moon passerby or even take a bath in the middle of the yard.

While those who are set in their ways still turn up their noses at these newer more brightly colored little people and their various activities, a new generation of gnome lovers find these gentle little visitors a complete delight and a way to add a little color, personality, luck and whimsy to their yard and garden.

With the resurgence of their popularity these little fellows are popping up in all sorts of interesting places. You might find one sleeping in a hammock, peeking from behind a tree or simply sitting on a rock reading the latest adventure or fairy tale. Wherever you find them and whatever they may be doing these little garden gnomes are sure to bring a delightful smile to your face and a lot of charm to outdoor decor. And who knows, they just might bring you a bit of luck as well.